News

The latest intake of RAF Junior Ranks (JRs) who have received RAF Charitable Trust funding to learn to fly will mean that 100 budding aviators will have reached their solo milestone during the RAF's centenary year.

The RAF Junior Ranks' Pilot Scholarship Scheme (JRPSS) was established in 2015 and is delivered by the RAF Flying Clubs' Association (RAFFCA). A Trust grant of £82,500 for 2018 ensures that among the latest scholars will be the 100th Junior Rank to learn to fly as part of this hugely popular and successful scheme.

During the two-month application window, 350 applications, from serving RAF Regular and Reserve Junior Ranks, were received and the final list of recipients was rubber-stamped by RAFFCA Chairman Air Cdre Al Seymour after a panel met at RAF Brize Norton in early February to shortlist candidates.

RAF Charitable Trust Director Justine Morton said Trustees recognised the opportunity to mark one important milestone in 2018 with another.

She said: "The large number of applications received each year is testament to the value of the scheme to the personal and professional growth of JRs. Learning to fly is not only a valuable skill in its own right but it has an incredibly empowering effect on scholars - widening their horizons and raising their ambitions."

The successful candidates will receive 15 hours of flying instruction on a light aircraft between April and September, which may count towards a Light Aircraft Pilot Licence (LAPL). All necessary equipment to undertake the training at selected RAF flying clubs will also be provided through the scholarship, including flying suits and study packs.

JRPSS Project Officer Sqn Ldr Chris Hives said: "I've been involved with the scheme from the start and its growth and popularity among the Junior Ranks has been wonderful to see. There have been so many examples of how the scheme has helped changed people's lives and enabled them to grow in ways they hadn't imagined previously. Seeing the 100th Scholar fly solo in the Service's Centenary year will be a very special moment indeed."